Madam, – I strongly support Fr Adrian Egan of Limerick who calls for a public debate on how people should approach Good Friday, in the light of the Munster-Leinster Magners League rugby match scheduled for that evening, and the bid to open the pubs afterwards (Home News, March 9th).
Could no other day have been found for this match or is nothing sacred any more?
Is blatant secularisation to take over without a murmur from anyone?
I think more consideration and respect should be given to the religious sensitivity of many of us on this island. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – The issue of allowing publicans in Limerick to open on Good Friday is, I would suggest, addressing the wrong issue.
The restriction on licensing laws occurs on the two days in the calendar year which mark the birth and death of Our Divine Saviour.
Is it not reasonable to inform the Celtic League that, in a Christian country, it is inappropriate to schedule a major sporting event on the most solemn day in the Christian calendar?
This would seem to be a more relevant question than debating how to reconcile the relaxed and joyous atmosphere of a major sporting events with the solemnity of this day. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – Why not move the Good Friday rugby match in Thomond Park forward a day, to Holy Thursday, April 1st? Using All Fools’ Day would be more appropriate and would dilute the awful arrogance factor that makes it so difficult for me to continue my enjoyment of the game. – Yours, etc,